I was in a hotel lobby recently when I heard two ladies exclaiming how much they loved this antique sideboard. I looked around and saw three more identical sideboards, which confirmed my suspicion: this was a reproduction. But what made it look old?
First, fake wormholes. You can do the same on one of your projects using a hammer and a small finish nail. To highlight your new wormholes, simply rub on Minwax® “Dark Walnut” Wood Finish™ Stain after your final coat of clear finish has dried. The stain won’t penetrate the Polyurethane finish, but will lodge in the holes you have created.
Next, pegged joints. Like wormholes, you can add a fake antique peg to any new project by using either a narrow chisel (for a square peg hole) or a 3/8-inch drill bit (for a round peg hole). Create the hole, add a drop of glue, tap in your peg, and sand it flush with the board. Again, just a little Minwax® stain will make the peg stand out — and will fool your guests, too!
Final Tip: Before doing any “faux antiquing,” study some authentic antiques, like this 1910 sideboard, to see exactly how — and where — you would expect to find wormholes, pegged joints, and worn areas.
Until next time,
Measure twice, saw once!
Thanks –
Bruce
